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How did Gampopa's teachings spread throughout Tibet?
Gampopa, also known as Dakpo Lharje, was a Tibetan Buddhist master who lived in the 12th century. He was a disciple of the renowned Indian master, Atisha, and is considered to be one of the most influential figures in the development of Tibetan Buddhism. Gampopa's teachings spread throughout Tibet through various means, including his own disciples, his written works, and his establishment of monasteries.
One of the main ways in which Gampopa's teachings spread was through his own disciples. He had many devoted students who were inspired by his teachings and went on to become influential teachers themselves. These disciples traveled throughout Tibet, sharing Gampopa's teachings with others and establishing their own centers of practice. Some of his most well-known disciples include Phagmo Drupa, who founded the Drikung Kagyu lineage, and Milarepa, who is considered one of the greatest yogis in Tibetan history.
In addition to his disciples, Gampopa's teachings also spread through his written works. He wrote several influential texts, including "The Jewel Ornament of Liberation" and "The Precious Garland of the Supreme Path," which became key texts in the Kagyu tradition. These texts were widely circulated and studied by his disciples and other practitioners, helping to spread his teachings throughout Tibet and beyond.
Furthermore, Gampopa's establishment of monasteries played a crucial role in the spread of his teachings. He founded the Daklha Gampo Monastery in southern Tibet, which became a major center of learning and practice for the Kagyu tradition. This monastery attracted many students and practitioners, who then went on to spread Gampopa's teachings in their own communities.
Gampopa's teachings also spread through the influence of other Tibetan Buddhist masters. His teachings were highly respected and sought after by other masters, such as the famous Sakya master, Sakya Pandita. These masters incorporated Gampopa's teachings into their own lineages, further spreading his influence throughout Tibet.
Overall, Gampopa's teachings spread throughout Tibet through a combination of his devoted disciples, his written works, and the establishment of monasteries. His teachings continue to be influential in the Kagyu tradition and have had a lasting impact on Tibetan Buddhism as a whole.